Atlanta catcher Drake Baldwin is set to build on his impressive performance when the Braves host the Miami Marlins in the second game of their five-game series on Friday. Baldwin’s recent offensive surge has become a key factor in the Braves offense boost, as his contributions have helped Atlanta stay competitive in the National League.
On Thursday, Baldwin powered the Braves’ comeback with two home runs and five RBIs, reversing a four-run deficit to secure an 8-6 victory over Miami. That win evened the season series at 3-3, raising Baldwin’s profile as a serious contender for National League Rookie of the Year honors.
Manager Praises Baldwin’s Impact and Compares Him to Past Greats
Braves manager Brian Snitker has drawn parallels between Baldwin and former Atlanta catcher Brian McCann, highlighting Baldwin’s maturity on the field. Snitker said,
“He reminds me of (former Atlanta catcher) Brian McCann a lot,”
adding,
“Mac came up and was above his years in age behind the plate and as an offensive player, and Drake is right there with him.”
Baldwin, 24, has demonstrated strong skills both offensively and defensively, alternating between catcher and designated hitter while sharing duties with veteran Sean Murphy.
Currently, Baldwin boasts a .287 batting average with 13 home runs and 46 RBIs this season. His well-rounded performance provides a steady presence behind the plate and a potent bat in the lineup.
Regarding Baldwin‘s Rookie of the Year chances, Snitker expressed confidence:
“He’s right there in all the categories, and at the end of the year, if he keeps going like this, it wouldn’t surprise me a bit.”
Rookie Rivalry Intensifies with Marlins’ Agustin Ramirez
On the opposing bench, Marlins catcher Agustin Ramirez represents one of Baldwin’s main competitors for the rookie honor. The 23-year-old is hitting .242 with 17 home runs and 52 RBIs, making the Braves-Marlins series a significant test for both rookies.
Pitching Duel to Set the Tone for Friday’s Game
The starting pitchers for Friday’s matchup are both right-handers: Atlanta’s Bryce Elder and Miami’s Edward Cabrera. Elder holds a 4-8 record with a 6.03 ERA, while Cabrera sports a 5-5 record and a 3.24 ERA.
Cabrera has been especially effective since May, recording a 5-4 record with a 2.32 ERA over 15 starts. He has accumulated 83 strikeouts and issued 23 walks in 81 1/3 innings, limiting opponents to a .213 batting average during that stretch. In his latest outing against the New York Yankees on Sunday, Cabrera pitched six innings, allowing one run on two hits with seven strikeouts and one walk.
Miami manager Clayton McCullough praised Cabrera’s reliability:
“We expect that now, and so does Cabby when he goes out there,”
adding,
“He has so many weapons he trusts in.”
In his career against Atlanta, Cabrera is 1-1 with a 3.50 ERA in four starts. He defeated the Braves in his last appearance on August 4, 2024, delivering five scoreless innings with eight strikeouts in a 7-0 Miami win.
Bryce Elder Looks to Rebound Following Recent Challenges
Bryce Elder is aiming to improve after a poor start on July 27, when he allowed eight runs in less than three innings against Texas. He responded with a solid outing on August 1, pitching 6 2/3 innings and conceding just two runs in a loss to Cincinnati. Elder emphasized his approach after the ups and downs:
“I think I threw more strikes,”
he said.
“Throwing more strikes, kind of make them make decisions and made them swing early. I kind of just accepted if I’m going to get beat, I’m going to get beat with this. I’m not going to back myself in a corner again and then get beat with one hit. They were going to have to string some together.”
Over nine career starts against Miami, Elder has a 2-3 record with a 3.46 ERA. His most recent outing against the Marlins on June 22 resulted in a loss when he allowed five runs on 10 hits over 5 1/3 innings.
Injuries and Returns Could Shift Braves’ Dynamics Soon
The Braves are hopeful about the near return of key players. Left-hander Chris Sale completed a 30-pitch simulated game without issues and is expected to make rehabilitation starts before rejoining the active roster. Meanwhile, right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. is recovering well from a strained right calf after taking batting practice on Thursday. His progress signals a potential boost for Atlanta’s lineup in upcoming games.
Looking Ahead: How Baldwin and the Braves Could Influence the Season
Drake Baldwin’s strong performances have become a central storyline for the Braves’ push in their division and earnings for the prestigious Rookie of the Year award. His ability to deliver under pressure, coupled with a pitching battle between Bryce Elder and Edward Cabrera, sets the stage for significant developments in this critical series. With two star players nearing returns, Atlanta’s offense and pitching depth could soon strengthen, making their matchup with the Marlins a pivotal moment in the season.